Thank you so much for posting the links. It's always fun to see programs in the early stages and then watch how they evolve over the course of a season.
I think both programs are going to move them up this year, though I wonder how far. I was a huge fan of the Woodkid FD, but let's face it, the judges are the very definition of staid (and then they wonder why people are not tuning in to watch).
As far as the programs...
For the SD, I want to run out on the ice and recut her skirt--it is SO distracting, and not in a good way. He's got a good feel for the paso--better, I think than she does. Flamenco was a good choice for them. Early days though. She needs to extend more and hold her positions just a fraction longer--it would make everything look more polished.
The FD is beautiful, a very good choice of music for them. That'll show those stuffy judges! There are elements of modern dance incorporated into the dance (the entrance into that first lift--Martha Graham would applaud!). I wish they would push the modern dance vocabulary more--it would make Mozart come alive in a new way. The problem I always had with Voir's Carmen was that the modern dance vocabulary was never fully integrated into the point-gathering step sequences (it was very odd to see Carmen being all moderne one minute, then ballrooming the next!), so it made the program sag. Here, they really could ramp up more of the modern, because they are not playing specific character. It will integrate much more naturally. Again, line and extension and take the time to finish the moves. I think the ending should be rethought--it sort of just winds down rather than ends, which gives the impression of petering out. Mes petites bêtes sauvages are being tamed a bit, but I think it is a good step for them. I just hope it is a step and not a destination--they have such potential to bring something new and exciting (and pfft on those stuffy judges!).
I'm really glad that they can pull it off; and can show this versatility from last season. So impressive!
European Champions next !
